Some years ago when my daughters were very young, I was stricken with an illness. I had thought I would go and 'sleep it off' as sleep is usually the best medicine. The next thing I remember was my sweet Mother there, wiping me down with cold, wet washcloths. I must have fallen asleep again, for the next thing she was there again, trying to coax me to have a sip of chicken broth. I drifted in and out of consciousness as my body fought whatever it was that afflicted me. Finally I woke and sat up. Mom was right there, dozing in the chair she had brought in to sit near me. She soon woke and looked so happy to see me finally awake and alert.
Apparently, I had been in and out of consciousness for nearly a week. After the girls discovered that Mom wouldn't wake up, they called Grandma, who came over immediately and took charge.
Mom told me that at times the fever had been very high, and that was when she would bring the cold compresses. Of course my sweet mother knew just what to do, and I was just fine. My body fought diligently and Mom was there to save the day.
What I remember most is the feeling each time I woke, and Mom was there. That comforting feeling of love and peace and safety that I've only ever felt from my Mom, that no matter what, everything will be alright.
I have no idea what virus attacked my body. I have always suspected West Nile Virus, though have no proof that it was or wasn't. I am just grateful that the girls had the presence of mind to call Grandma and that my Mom was there to take care of us.
